In order to promote the best educational experience, students should feel connected to their educational environment and to others in the school community. Building meaningful connections can occur in a variety of ways. Technology has advanced peoples' ability to connect with one another across a variety of virtual platforms, and when used appropriately, adds value to the learning environment. However, it is vital to the developmental health and growth of students that the district provides opportunities for students to connect with peers and other members of their school community in-person whenever possible. In-person learning and interactions teach vital life and social skills that students will need for their continued success in the community.
For this reason, student use of personal electronic devices during instructional time is prohibited. Students have access to district-owned electronic devices as appropriate for the instructional needs of the learning environment and authorized by the classroom teacher. Personal electronic devices means any device that is capable of electronically communicating, sending, receiving, storing, recording, reproducing and/or displaying information and data. Students may wear smart or electronic watches but may not use any communication applications or features that are prohibited from use on other electronic devices and all notifications must be turned off. Personal electronic devices that have been specifically authorized under a current individual education plan (IEP), a Section 504 plan, or an Individual Health Plan (IHP) are exempt from this policy. For purposes of this policy, instructional time is defined as the time from the beginning of class bell through the end of class bell, and includes all lunch and recess periods.
Students who choose to use personal electronic devices outside instructional time but while on school property, at school-sponsored events, or in a manner that may impact the educational environment must use these devices in accordance with all applicable laws and board policies. Students who violate this policy may face disciplinary consequences. The Superintendent, in conjunction with building level administration, will develop administrative regulations in accordance with this policy.
Note: This policy and the language contained here is optional. The language should be adapted to suit the needs of individual districts. The definition of personal electronic devices includes cell phones, headphones and other Bluetooth devices. Smartwatches have been specifically exempted if the settings are appropriately configured. However, individual districts should decide whether to exempt smartwatches. Instructional time is defined to include lunch, recess, and passing periods in this policy. However, districts should adapt this language to suit the needs of their individual communities.
Legal References:
16 C.F.R. 312
34 C.F.R. pt. 99
47 C.F.R. 54.520
Iowa Code 279.8
I.C. Iowa Code References Description
Iowa Code § 279.8 Directors - General Rules - Bonds of Employees
C.F.R. - Code of Federal Regulations References Description
16 C.F.R. 312 Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule
34 C.F.R. Pt. 99 Education - Family Rights and Privacy
47 C.F.R. 54.520 Communications - Children's Internet Protection Act
Cross References Description
401.12 Employee Use of Cell Phones
401.12-R(1) Employee Use of Cell Phones - Regulation
Approved November 18, 2024 Reviewed Revised
